SIBO – Small Intestinal Bowel Overgrowth
1 in 5 Australians are diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). If you are suffering with IBS, you know only too well how debilitating and frustrating this condition can be.
The vast majority of people with IBS actually suffer from Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO).
What is SIBO?
Trillions of bacteria are normally found in the large intestine. Here they perform various important symbiotic functions for the human body. SIBO occurs when there is bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, which is the absorptive area of the body.
Symptoms of SIBO can include constipation, diarrhoea, alternating constipation/diarrhoea, abdominal cramping, bloating, wind, burping and reflux.
Why is SIBO a problem?
Aside from undesirable symptoms, SIBO can result in damage to the gut wall, leaky gut and malabsorption of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals. It can be associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, coeliac disease, acne, diabetes, hypothyroidism, liver cirrhosis and diverticulitis.
What causes SIBO?
There are many things that can cause SIBO including: gastroenteritis, digestive enzyme insufficiency, chronic stress and intestinal motility issues (eg gastric bypass surgery, diverticulosis and endometrial adhesions).
How do you test for SIBO?
Testing for SIBO is easy and simple. It’s a breath test that is done in the comfort of your own home. The test measures the levels of hydrogen and methane gas produced by bacteria in the small intestine which has diffused into the blood, and then the lungs, for expiration. Nicole will discuss the test results with you and introduce a protocol to eliminate the SIBO.
How is SIBO treated?
The good news is that SIBO can be treated and resolved. There is no need to keep suffering and living with these symptoms. A natural protocol for eliminating SIBO includes:
- Easy to apply dietary modifications
- Antimicrobial herbal treatment
- Natural digestive aids and nutrients if required
Depending on the severity of the SIBO, treatment may take around 6 months. Ongoing treatment for 6-12 months ensures that recurrence of SIBO is prevented and the underlying cause is addressed.
Take this quiz to see how likely you are to have SIBO.
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